Hallux valgus

Hallux valgus (often known as a bunion) is the commonest of the foot deformities. In this condition the big toe - the hallux - assumes a valgus position.

There are two groups of patients with hallux valgus:

• adolescents or young adults:
  • there is often a family history of hallux valgus
  • the articular surfaces are intact
  • the primary deformity is a varus first metatarsal
    
• elderly ladies (occasionally men):
  • the first metatarsophalangeal joint shows degenerative changes or rheumatoid arthritis
  • there may be secondary deformities in adjoining toes

Reference

1. Choa R, Sharp R, Mahtani KR; Hallux valgus. BMJ. 2010 Sep 27;341